Statement from Minister Blaney at the 21st Canadian Legislative Conference of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Canada

The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today issued the following statement after speaking at the 21st Canadian Legislative Conference of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Canada in Ottawa.

"Today, I had the opportunity to extend my deep appreciation for the vital roles fire fighters play in keeping Canadians safe.

The International Association of Fire Fighters, Canada (IAFF/Canada), is an organization that represents over 21,700 professional fire fighters across Canada, and works tirelessly to ensure that fire fighters have the tools and training they need to perform their jobs.

Responding to emergencies is increasingly challenging as they become more intense and complex. That is why I am proud of our Government's longstanding support and efforts to help all first responders - including fire fighters, police and paramedics - do their jobs in this context. Specifically, we:

Committed, since 2008, $500,000 per year to IAFF/Canada to develop and deliver hazardous materials response training to first responders nationwide, which has resulted in hazardous materials training for more than 1,800 first responders from more than 190 rural and urban communities across Canada;

Recently extended funding for this nationally accredited program until 2016; and we

Are working with provincial and territorial partners, emergency responder associations, and partners in the United States to explore the development of a public safety broadband network in the 700 megahertz (MHz) spectrum.

I am grateful to all first responders for serving the public without hesitation. They are true heroes, putting others' safety before their own."